Extensive research has clarified the vital role that parents can play in promoting the well-being of their children. At Families First, this research is the backbone of our parenting education programs.

Families First’s programs have a positive impact on parents, children, and communities because…

“Learning how to cope with adversity is an important part of healthy child development… When a young child’s stress response systems are activated within an environment of supportive relationships with adults, the physiological effects are buffered and brought back down to baseline.”

“Children who experience positive, nurturing environments during the early years demonstrate more positive outcomes, such as healthier social relationships, higher academic and professional achievement, and enriched psychological and physical health.”

Nine out of ten families surveyed by the Search Institute did not have the community and social connections needed to support their families.

“Families who struggle the most often have weaker social connections and supports. An opportunity, then, lies in strengthening the… social bonds—particularly with other families and parenting adults who share common priorities, challenges, and interests—so that families have trustworthy people they can turn to when they need more support or encouragement.”

“We should not underestimate the role of the parent and the power that comes from providing parents with information, resources and choice. Ensuring that parents have the knowledge and resources for providing a stimulating home environment is just as important, if not more important, as anything that happens in the classroom when children enter school.”